Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven could be the breakthrough star for the Netherlands this summer, if Ronald Koeman is willing to think ‘inventively’.
That’s according to journalist Henk Spaan, who believes the European Championship in Germany could be a breakout one for the Tottenham man.
Van de Ven has been one of the stars of the season for Tottenham this year, establishing himself in the heart of their defence with a series of impressive performance since arriving in the summer.
The 23-year-old appears set to have a bright future in the game, with his defensive nous and often ridiculous turn of pace having already established him in the Premier League, where he’s looked comfortable from day one for Tottenham.
He’s been missing from the group since then because of a hamstring injury but was named in Koeman’s squad for the tournament this week.
And Spaan believes it could be a breakout one for him, if his international manager is willing to be inventive with his selection.
“Van de Ven played 26 games for Tottenham in his debut year, became player of the year at his club, is the (measured) fastest player in the Premier League and scored three goals in the bargain,” he said.
“If there is one central defender who can play with ‘space in the back’, it is him. Moreover, he can also play at left-back.
“This tall slugger is now worth €50m. He could break through as an international this European Championship, if Koeman is willing to think inventively.”
